Tape Worm Tabs for Dogs v. Fish Tapes

The two varieties of tapeworms most commonly found in dogs are dipylidium caninum and taenia pisiformis. These parasites are transmitted from fleas and lice or acquired by eating infected rodents, rabbits and sheep. The only ingredient that will kill both kinds of tapeworms in dogs is Praziquantel. Praziquantel is the active ingredient in Fish Tapes and Tape Worm Tabs™. Fish Tapes is labeled for fish, and is not labeled for use in dogs for the treatment of tapeworms.

Important Facts About Praziquantel:

• Praziquantel is safe for puppies over 4 weeks of age
• Praziquantel is FDA approved for use in dogs
• Tape Worm Tabs™ for dogs have 34 mg of Praziquantel per tablet
• Fish Tapes have 34 mg in water soluble capsules

Directions For Use In Dogs (34 mg Praziquantel):

• 5 pounds or less: ½ capsule or tablet
• 6-10 pounds: 1 capsule or tablet
• 11-15 pounds: 1½ capsules or tablets
• 16-30 pounds: 2 capsules or tablets
• 31-45 pounds: 3 capsules or tablets
• 46-60 pounds: 4 capsules or tablets
• Over 60 pounds: 5 capsules or tablets maximum

Fasting:

The recommended dosage of Praziquantel is not affected by the presence or absence of food, therefore, fasting is neither necessary nor recommended.

Retreatment:

Steps should be taken to control fleas and small mammals on the premises in order to prevent reinfection; otherwise, retreatment will be necessary. This is especially true in cases of tapeworms transmitted by fleas (Dipylidium caninum) where reinfection is almost certain to occur if fleas are not removed from the animal and its environment. If reinfection occurs, tapeworm segments may be observed within one month of the initial treatment.

Side Effects:

Isolated incidents of either vomiting, diarrhea, poor appetite or listlessness have been reported following treatment, but were considered non-significant. If these signs are observed and they persist, consult your veterinarian.

Warning:

Consult your veterinarian before administering tablets to weak or debilitated animals. Keep out of the reach of children. Not for human use.

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Any use of a product that is not clearly defined on the label directions should only be done under supervision of a qualified veterinary professional. Renee Jones, CPDT-KSA, is a certified professional dog trainer, having received instruction from canine behaviorist Dr. Pamela Reid, plus nationally acclaimed trainers: Patricia McConnell, Pia Silvani, and Jean Donaldson, to name a few. She is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). She serves as a Pet Marketing and Canine Specialist for JeffersPet and JeffersPet.com. Questions about this article, training or non-emergent health concerns are welcome. Renee can be reached most days from 9am – 5pm Central Time (Mon-Fri) at 1-800-JEFFERS (533-3377) ext 381 or by email rsjones@jefferspet.com.

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Information given here is meant to be helpful and/or educational. It is, in no way, intended to supersede, challenge or supplant the diagnosis, treatment or advice of a licensed veterinarian.